Tamil Nadu: Self-cleaning smart toilets in Chennai

Chennai: In a first of its kind project in India, more than 180 self-cleaning public toilets have been installed in Chennai.

The location of these toilets can be searched through an Android app called eToilet.

Occupying about 35 sq ft space, each automatic unmanned toilet cleans itself before entry and after use. They come equipped with sensors for exhaust fan and light to ensure that they consume less water and power than conventional toilets.

These are programmed to flush with only 1.5 litres of water after 3 minutes of use, and with 4.5 litres if the usage period is longer. It also washes the floor automatically after five or ten rounds.

The cost of each toilet is approximately Rs 4.50 lakh but they are completely free to use. Around 40 of the 183 toilets in the city are for women, and have a sanitary napkin generator and an incinerator. In addition, five toilets have been built for the differently-abled.